IPC Standards for Flexible Printed Circuits (FPCs)

Are you familiar with IPC standards for Flexible Printed Circuits (FPCs)? FPCs are available in different IPC standards. Like with other standards, IPC standards determine how a particular product is designed. IPC standards, though, are among the most trusted and widely recognized in the electronics industry. You can find FPCs in several different IPC standards, some of which include the following.

IPC 6013 Type 1

FPCs designed using the IPC 6013 type 1 standard are made of a single layer that provides access to the conductors. An insulating material is added to either one or both sides of this layer. IPC 6013 type 1 FPCs are simple, inexpensive and easy to manufacture, making them a popular choice for commercial circuits.

IPC 6013 Type 2

In addition to IPC 6013 type 1, there’s the IPC 6013 type 2 standard. It’s a slightly more stringent standard compared to its counterpart. The IPC 6013 type 2 standard requires FPCs to feature two separate layers. Each of these layers must have an insulating film between them. The IPC 6013 type 2 standard also requires FPCs to feature plated interconnect holes and access to the conductors from one or both sides.

IPC 6013 Type 3

You may discover that some FPCs are designed using the IPC 6013 type 3 standard. Also known simply as type 3 FPCs, they feature three or more layers. Like their type 2 counterparts, they require an insulating film between their respective layers. IPC 6013 type 3 standard FPCs also require plated interconnect holes and access to the conductors from one or both sides.

IPC 6013 Type 4

Finally, there’s the IPC 6013 type 3 standard. It’s among the most stringent IPC standards in which FPCs are designed. IPC 6013 type 3 standard FPCs feature two or more layers, which are separated by an insulating film, and they require plated interconnect holes and access to the conductors from on or both sides. The difference is that IPC 6013 type 3 standard supports a rigid printed circuit. It’s the only IPC standard that allows FPCs to incorporate a rigid printed circuit.

FPCs receive their namesake from their flexible properties. You can bend and flex them without breaking them. With their flexible properties. FPCs are ideal for use in small electronics. But if you’re looking to buy FPCs, you should choose the right IPC standard. FPCs are available in IPC 6013 type 1, type 2, type 3 and type 4.